As Seminary teachers, we have the sacred responsibility to guide and influence the spiritual growth of young people during a formative period of their lives. The relationships we build with them can shape not only their faith but their sense of belonging in the gospel of Jesus Christ. In this effort, we can draw strength from the counsel of modern apostles.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf reminds us of the importance of sincere, Christlike love in our relationships:
“God sees you not only as a mortal being on a small planet who lives for a brief season—He sees you as His child. He sees you as the being you are capable and designed to become. He wants you to know that you matter to Him.”— Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "You Matter to Him," October 2011 General Conference
This principle is at the heart of building lasting relationships. When students feel seen, valued, and loved as children of God, they are more likely to stay engaged, not only in Seminary but in their lifelong journey of faith.
Today, I would like to talk about how to develop and nurture these Christ-centered relationships that can have an enduring impact on the lives of our students. Through small acts of kindness, consistent presence, and a deep love for the Savior, we can help them feel His love in a way that will stay with them long after they leave the Seminary classroom.
1. Be Present and Engaged
Daily Consistency: Show up for students, both physically and emotionally. Being present consistently sends a message that you care about their growth and well-being.
Focus on the Individual: Be genuinely interested in each student’s life. Ask questions about their personal interests, challenges, and spiritual journey.
Active Listening: When a student shares, listen fully. Avoid distractions or rushing to respond. Let them know their thoughts matter.
Example: During class, make eye contact with students when they speak. If a student seems withdrawn, check in with them after class to show you’ve noticed and care.
2. Model Christlike Love and Empathy
Compassion and Patience: Emulate Christ’s love by being compassionate and patient, even when students struggle or are disengaged.
Unconditional Positive Regard: Demonstrate acceptance without judgment. Every student is worthy of love and support, regardless of where they are in their spiritual development.
Forgiveness and Second Chances: Offer grace when mistakes are made, helping students see that failure is part of growth and that they are always welcome back.
Example: If a student misses a lesson, instead of focusing on the absence, express that you missed them and are excited to see them next time.
3. Be a Mentor Beyond the Classroom
Support Their Personal Goals: Take an interest in their academic, extracurricular, and career goals. Celebrate milestones and achievements outside of Seminary.
Stay Connected: Maintain appropriate, ongoing contact after they graduate Seminary. A simple message of encouragement during a tough time or a friendly check-in can mean a lot.
Mentor for Life: Recognize that your relationship with students may extend into their adult years. Be a source of wisdom and spiritual guidance even after they leave Seminary.
Example: After a student graduates, occasionally reach out to them during major life transitions—like starting college, preparing for a mission, attending institute, or navigating early adulthood.
4. Foster a Safe, Trusting Environment
Emotional Safety: Ensure your classroom is a place where students feel safe to express doubts, ask questions, and share feelings without fear of judgment.
Confidentiality: Respect students’ privacy. If they confide in you, maintain their trust by not sharing personal details unless absolutely necessary.
Empower Through Trust: Trust your students to be responsible for their own growth, but also guide them with wisdom and discernment.
Example: If a student shares a sensitive personal concern, assure them that their confidence is respected, and support them in finding the help they may need.
5. Inspire a Love for the Gospel
Teach with Passion: Let your love for the Savior and the gospel be evident in your teaching. Enthusiasm and genuine belief are contagious and inspire students.
Encourage Personal Revelation: Help students develop their own testimonies by encouraging them to seek personal spiritual experiences, rather than relying solely on external sources.
Connect Gospel Principles to Real Life: Show students how the gospel applies to everyday challenges and joys. Help them see that it is relevant in every phase of life.
Example: Use real-life examples that resonate with their current experiences to demonstrate how gospel principles can guide them in decision-making and personal development.
6. Lead by Example
Live the Gospel Intentionally: Your actions outside the classroom should align with the principles you teach. This consistency will inspire trust and respect.
Humble Leadership: Be open about your own struggles and growth as a disciple of Christ. Vulnerability fosters deeper connections.
Example: Share how you’ve applied a gospel principle in your personal life, illustrating that everyone—including teachers—is continually learning and growing in faith.
Conclusion:
Building lifelong relationships with Seminary students requires dedication, love, and a commitment to their spiritual and personal growth. By being present, showing genuine empathy, providing mentorship, and leading by example, you can influence their lives long after they leave your classroom. These relationships, grounded in Christlike love, can make a lasting spiritual impact.
Comentários